Sikkim CM PS Tamang Raises NH10 Woes with NITI Aayog, Locals Hope for Relief During PM Modi’s Visit

Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang raised the issue during a meeting with NITI Aayog last week in New Delhi.

The National Highway 10 (NH10), especially the stretch from Sevoke to Rangpo in West Bengal, remains the biggest challenge for Sikkim’s connectivity in recent times.

Since the devastating Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) in 2023, this critical road, Sikkim’s only lifeline to the rest of the country has become highly vulnerable to frequent landslides and sudden disruptions. These repeated blockages have badly hit Sikkim’s economy, mainly affecting the tourism and transport sectors, which are vital for the state’s livelihood.

Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang raised the issue during a meeting with NITI Aayog last week in New Delhi. He highlighted the urgency of the matter and conveyed the growing concern among the people of Sikkim.

People had felt a brief sense of relief when the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) took charge of the highway from the West Bengal Public Works Department (PWD). However, that relief quickly faded. Regular construction work and unpredictable road closures have caused heavy traffic congestion, worsening the daily struggle for commuters and transporters.

Now, all eyes are on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is scheduled to visit Sikkim on May 29. Many locals are hopeful that his visit will lead to a major announcement or a concrete plan to address the ongoing crisis on NH10.

Local drivers, who are among the worst hit, spoke to the media about the heavy financial losses they face due to long detours and road closures. “We are losing thousands of rupees every day. Fuel costs are rising, and customers are losing patience,” said one driver. “We hope the Prime Minister brings a solution. We can’t go on like this.”

With the situation worsening and public pressure mounting, residents across Sikkim are waiting anxiously for May 29, hoping that this visit brings not just promises but real change.

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